Derek McInnes hopes to keep Ryan Christie beyond current loan deal

Derek McInnes has explained Aberdeen have little money left to spend this January transfer window, having already reinvested the funds earned from the sale of Jayden Stockley and Jonny Hayes last summer.

Having spent half a million pounds on bringing in Stevie May and Gary Mackay-Steven before the season Aberdeen recently landed the signature of Chidi Nwakali on loan from Manchester City, whilst former Pittodrie star Niall McGinn re-signed after a torrid spell away in South Korea.

Christie has arguably been Aberdeen’s best player since arriving for a second loan spell from Celtic at the start of the season. He has featured in 25 games so far this season, scoring 5 goals.

Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers may well be keen on keeping the youngster in Glasgow ahead of next season, however, especially if his midfield star Stuart Armstrong leaves for England.

Former Rangers youth player Stewart is currently on loan from Birmingham, and has also shone for McInnes’ side this season, becoming an integral part of the team.

“I am enjoying working with both Ryan and Greg,” McInnes is quoted by the Daily Record, “So if there were any encouragement or opportunity to extend that working period with them it is something I would always be keen on.”

McInnes will do well to hold on to even one of the two next season, with both players having impressed so much during their time at Pittodrie.

Christie himself must have his heart set on having a crack at it in Glasgow next season, having only experienced limited opportunities since arriving from Inverness CT in 2015.